On the weekend of 19-20 July we did a challenge walk in the Lake District as a way of remembering Clare Orange and raising awareness of some of the issues surrounding her loss. The walk involved ascending all four fells in the Lake District over 3000 feet in height - the 'Lakes 3000s': Scafell, Sca Fell Pike, Helvellyn and Skiddaw. Clare loved walking, especially in the Lake District, and many of us have very fond memories of time spent walking with her. A challenging walk in the Lakes therefore seemed an appropriate focus for gathering some of Clare's friends together, as a way of doing something positive in her memory. In doing so, the event provided a personal challenge and motivating incentive to get out and improve our own health, fitness, and quality of life, something that Clare did so much about for others. 

Our initial aim of doing all four summits in a continuous 24 hour round proved ambitious. We (Gil and Jo) were therefore happy in the end to complete our primary aim of ascending all four summits over the weekend in a total of approximately 30 miles of walking and 10,800 feet of ascent. 

By chance, we were based in the same row of cottages in Borrowdale where several of us had spent a weekend with Clare a few years ago. The greatest thing about walking weekends with Clare was the friendship and support, and true to form, Andy & Annabel made it all possible by running round after us, while Jill & Anne joined us on the final leg. 

All of us have our own thoughts and ways to remember and to try and do something, but if you'd like to contribute something however small here then it will go to a great cause. Moneys received will go along with other contributions from Clare's family and friends towards Tyneside Mind's Safe Space group based in Hexham.

I am already hatching plans to do the full round in a day, if anyone is up for a challenge!